Leaders, start the year how you want to finish it

If you’ve ever worked with me before, you’re probably familiar with my oft-recited mantra: “Start it how you want to finish it”. It’s advice applicable to so many things in life and in the life of leaders in particular as they look to guide their teams each year through various projects, challenges and opportunities. 

Reflection is more than just looking backwards

There’s a reason that so many people set themselves New Year’s Resolutions to get healthy. It’s no coincidence that this resolve comes off the back of a few weeks feasting on Christmas fare and enjoying plenty of time in front of the TV. We’re our laziest selves at the end of December so, naturally, many of us decide to start the New Year with a new routine so that we don’t find ourselves in a similar situation in 12 months time. 

We use the reflection on our feelings – physical and mental – to put a new plan in place.

It’s the same as a leader. Reflection is critical for you to know how to move forward. Ask some questions relating to both you and your team: 

• How did you feel at the end of the year? 
• What was your team frustrated about? 
• What really worked? 
• What wasn’t working? 

Set a new tone, pace and direction from the very beginning

The first few weeks of the year are critical. While your team may be trickling back into the office as they return from holidays and business might be slower than usual, it’s the perfect time to sit down, discuss the goals for this year and put new practices into place where you can. 

The New Year provides this opportunity with everyone’s minds geared towards a fresh start which can make it easier for leaders to lead changes in a more organic way, rather than trying to orchestrate change in the middle of the year. 

How do you want to finish the year? 

It’s easy to think of things you want to change for your team but remember that, as a leader, you set the tone from the top. Decide how you want to use your energy to create an environment where your team thrives, facilitating the more practical changes you want to see throughout the organisation. 

Want to set the tone for the year ahead? People Make the Difference can help. To find out more, visit www.pmtd.com.au or call us on 0412 333 415. Try our online leadership training videos – $99 for complete access. Great value if you’re committed to growing your leadership potential.